Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around recommendations for textbooks to learn C++. Participants share their experiences with various books and suggest different approaches to learning the language, including whether to learn C first. The scope includes personal preferences, pedagogical approaches, and the effectiveness of different textbooks.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses a preference for Bjarne Stroustrup's "Programming: Principles and Practice Using C++," noting its comprehensive coverage but also its occasional lack of explanations for certain functions.
- Another participant suggests learning C before C++, recommending the "white book" (Kernighan and Ritchie) for a solid foundation.
- Some participants agree that learning C first can provide a better understanding of C++'s capabilities, emphasizing the importance of grasping pointers and dynamic memory allocation.
- Deitel's books are recommended by one participant based on their own positive experiences with various programming texts, highlighting their thoroughness and the need for patience in reading them.
- Gaddis's textbooks are mentioned positively by multiple participants, with one noting their familiarity with the author and preference for Gaddis's style over others like Savitch.
- C++ Primer is suggested as a reliable resource by one participant, indicating its broad acceptance among learners.
- Concerns are raised about the abundance of code examples in some textbooks, with a participant suggesting that some could be omitted for clarity.
- One participant mentions their role as a reviewer for Gaddis's first edition and shares their upcoming teaching plans using "Problem Solving with C++" by Walter Savitch.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of opinions on the best approach to learning C++ and the effectiveness of various textbooks. There is no consensus on a single best textbook, and multiple competing views on whether to learn C first remain present.
Contextual Notes
Some participants note the importance of foundational knowledge in C for understanding C++, while others advocate for direct learning of C++. The discussion reflects varying levels of experience and preferences for different teaching styles and textbook formats.